Marine Corps identifies pilot who died in crash with KC-130J off the coast of Japan

The Marine Corps has identified the pilot of an F/A-18 who died when his aircraft crashed with a KC-130J off the coast of Japan as Capt. Jahmar F. Resilard.

The 28-year-old was pronounced dead after being initially rescued off the coast of Kochi, Japan on Dec. 6. Resilard was recovered with another Marine from the Hornet who survived the crash.

So far, five Marines aboard the KC-130J have yet to be accounted for as search and rescue operations are underway. Resilard was assigned to Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, officials said.

"The Bats are deeply saddened by the loss of Captain Jahmar Resilard,” said Lt. Col. James Compton, commander of Resilard’s squadron.

“He was an effective and dedicated leader who cared for his Marines and fellow fighter pilots with passion. His warm and charismatic nature bound us together, and we will miss him terribly. We honor his service and his contribution to the Marine Corps and our great nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

Officials said the “mishap” happened around 2 a.m. local time on Thursday, Dec. 6 and remains under investigation.

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